NWSL Playoff Semifinal Preview: Gotham FC vs. Washington Spirit
For the first time since 2009, two powerhouse women’s soccer teams from Washington D.C. and the New York/New Jersey area are set to clash in a playoff game that promises drama, tension, and potentially a few questionable haircuts. Yes, folks, we’ve got NJ/NY Gotham FC making the trek down to the nation’s capital to face off against the Washington Spirit. This sounds like the sporting equivalent of “who wore it better” meets “Survivor.”
Both teams are coming off nail-biting quarterfinals, with Gotham’s Rose Lavelle channeling her inner last-minute hero against the Portland Thorns, scoring in the seventh minute of stoppage time. Meanwhile, the Spirit secured their win in spectacular fashion with an own goal by former player Caprice Dydasco. Nothing like a good bit of goalkeeping sabotage to spice things up, eh?
The Rivalry: Gotham’s Kryptonite?
Now, if you’re new to this matchup, just know that Washington has proven to be Gotham’s kryptonite this season. The Spirit handed Gotham a couple of 2-0 defeats both at home and away. It’s like Gotham entered a game of tag where they were always “it,” and no one wants to be “it,” trust me. Sure, Gotham managed a win in the NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup, but c’mon, that was basically a friendly with a fancy name. Think of it as two cousin teams trying to sort out their family drama at a picnic.
Recovery and Comebacks
As for the teams’ recent performances, Gotham’s wounds from past face-offs might heal stronger. This match comes after they’ve had time to recuperate while Washington has danced through their own ups and downs. It’s perfectly timed; both teams are even in terms of rest and form. So, no excuses this time…unless the wind blows the wrong way and knocks half the players over – then all bets are off.
Fun fact: Gotham has some scorelines that look like they were lifted from a school sports record, while Washington was the league champion in 2021. (Might I suggest some more competitive training montages in the meantime?) Who doesn’t love an underdog story that also manages to juggle the history of a championship win? It’s like “Rocky,” but with shin guards and a lot less liver damage.
The Match-Up: Stars on the Field
The match is set for a cozy 12:00 PM EST kick-off at Audi Field, complete with a forecast of 58 degrees and just enough wind to give the players a stylish ‘I just came off a marathon’ look. Meanwhile, injuries have plagued both squads. Gotham’s injury report reads like the sad obituary of a beloved family pet: Kelley O’Hara, Midge Purce, Crystal Dunn – all out of the season and “forever missed.” On a brighter note, Gotham welcomes Cece Kizer back; it’s like finding a fiver in an old jacket – unexpected and delightful.
Washington’s Tara McKeown, a defender who’s more versatile than your dad’s collection of VHS tapes, has become a formidable wall on the backline. With links to becoming the league’s Defender of the Year, she’s out to prove that sometimes a number 9 can kick butt in a defensive role. Yes, we’re redefining gender stereotypes one match at a time!
Final Predictions: It’s Anyone’s Game
Predicting this match-up is akin to balancing on a tightrope while juggling flaming torches: it’s nervy and possibly disastrous. Both teams have everything to gain and nothing to lose as they step into what promises to be a theatrical showdown. If I were a betting man (which I’m tactfully not), I’d pin a 2-1 victory for Gotham FC with goals from Ella Stevens and Yazmeen Ryan, and an Ashley Hatch strike for the Spirit. However, don’t hold me to it unless you want to go down with my ship!
So grab your popcorn, tune in at noon, and prepare to cheer for what could easily be one of the best matches we’ve seen all season. And remember, whether you’re a Gotham fan or a Spirit supporter, may the best team bring home the bacon and the bragging rights!
For the first time since 2009, a highly anticipated playoff match will feature two professional women’s soccer teams from Washington D.C. and the New York/New Jersey area as they clash in a critical semifinal game in the post-season. NJ/NY Gotham FC will travel to the nation’s capital to face off against the Washington Spirit, with both teams having secured dramatic late victories in their quarterfinal matchups that showcased their resilience and determination. Rose Lavelle played hero for Gotham, scoring a thrilling late goal against the Portland Thorns FC in the seventh minute of stoppage time, captivating fans and proving her vital role in the team’s success. Concurrently, the Spirit’s game-winner resulted from a dramatic own goal in the sixth minute of extra time, surprisingly struck by former Spirit defender, Caprice Dydasco, during their matchup with Bay FC.
Meanwhile, Washington has been a significant hurdle for Gotham FC, inflicting losses that marred an otherwise exceptional season for the Bats. Gotham succumbed to the Spirit’s prowess with 2-0 defeats at home and away. Although Gotham did achieve a 1-0 win against Washington during the NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup, that victory came in a context where key players were absent due to the Olympics.
Those previous losses present additional insights worth noting. The initial defeat occurred back in April when Gotham was grappling with a sluggish start to the season. The second loss transpired at the conclusion of a taxing three-game week in June while the Spirit enjoyed a period of rest leading up to that match. However, with both teams now entering this match on equal footing in terms of rest and form, this matchup appears far more balanced. Moreover, both franchises have seen triumphs and hardships in recent years: Gotham FC claimed championship glory in 2023, while Washington celebrated their title in 2021, but both teams experienced underwhelming campaigns in the 2022 season, finishing at the bottom of the league standings.
Now, Gotham FC and the Washington Spirit will compete fiercely for a coveted spot in the championship game, hoping to join an elite group as the fourth team in league history to secure multiple championships. Here is the preview of the NWSL Playoffs semifinals.
The match is scheduled to begin at 12:00 PM EST and will be played in Washington D.C. at Audi Field. Fans can catch all the action live as the fixture will be broadcast on CBS and streamed on Paramount+.
A sunny but cool day is expected with the temperature around 58 degrees at kickoff. Wind gusts may reach 25 mph, adding an extra element to the game, while only 15% cloud cover and 50% humidity will contribute to the perfect atmosphere for an intense soccer battle. Fortunately, the chance of rain is at a commendable 0%, ensuring uninterrupted play.
Kelley O’Hara (knee) and Midge Purce (knee) remain out on the season-ending injury list for Gotham FC. Additionally, Crystal Dunn and Svava Guðmundsdóttir remain out as well due to excused absences. However, in a timely boost for Gotham, Cece Kizer (foot) returns from the injury report, having not played since October 12. Both Tierna Davidson (thigh) and Delanie Sheehan (lower leg) were also removed from the injury report after recent concerns.
Despite not starting on Sunday against the Portland Thorns, Sheehan made a remarkable impact after coming on as a substitute in the 90th minute, assisting the game-winning goal just within seven minutes of her entry. Regarded as one of Gotham’s and the NWSL’s most underrated players, this was only the second time this season that she has not started, yet she ranks second on the team for total league minutes. Although her stats may not reflect it in terms of goals and assists, it is evident that Gotham performs significantly better with her presence on the pitch.
On the other hand, for Washington, Tara McKeown has emerged as one of the league’s standout defenders. Originally starting her career as a forward, McKeown, who now dons the typically striker’s number 9, has excelled in her transition to the center-back position. With her impressive 2024 season making her a candidate for Defender of the Year, McKeown showcased her offensive instincts by scoring a critical equalizer against Bay FC, which earned her Player of the Match honors last weekend. If Washington aims to keep Gotham from scoring, McKeown’s defensive prowess will be paramount.
This matchup stands out as one of the most challenging games to forecast this year. Both teams are evenly matched, each presenting compelling arguments for a potential victory. Ultimately, Gotham FC may hold a slight advantage due to a more favorable injury situation. A projected outcome predicts a 2-1 victory for the Bats, with goals coming from Ella Stevens and Yazmeen Ryan for the victors, along with an Ashley Hatch goal for the Spirit. Regardless of the game’s outcome, expect a closely contested affair, as the winning margin is likely to be no more than a single goal.
What impact did Rose Lavelle’s game-winning goal have on the perception of her role in the team despite limited playing time?
E game-winning goal by Rose Lavelle, illustrating her pivotal role even in limited minutes. On the other hand, the Washington Spirit have their own injury woes, losing key players throughout the season but managing to adapt and find solutions in their squad’s depth.
The match promises to be high-stakes and energizing, not just for the teams, but for fans around the league. As these two rivals gear up for what is bound to be a spirited clash, the anticipation is palpable. Both squads will look to capitalize on their strengths—Gotham’s tactical gameplay and Washington’s relentless pressing—and the battle for supremacy could go either way.
Fans should be ready for a rollercoaster of emotions as the teams step onto the pitch with pride and determination, each aiming to etch their name in the annals of NWSL history. Pack your gear, bring your best chants, and let the competition begin! Grab your snacks, settle in, and enjoy what may very well be a thrilling display of women’s soccer.
